Blog Articles

I was arrested for a second degree felony about two years ago. The case was dismissed shortly after the indictment hearing as it was obvious they had the wrong guy. I really don’t want this on my record, and am pretty annoyed that it’s even on there in the first place as I should have never been arrested. Can I get this record expunged? How involved is the record expungement process?

Will in Houston, TX

Hi! I’m looking to rent a house with a few roommates, but I’m worried that a previous Class C Misdemeanor for Public Intoxication will be an issue with potential landlords. I received the citation, payed the fine, and my application for deferred disposition was granted and the probation period ends within the next month. Will this affect my ability to rent a house with my friends? Am I eligible for getting my record expunged? Thanks for the help!

Justin in Dallas, TX

My 16 year old daughter was caught shoplifting about $60 worth of makeup last weekend. She was charged and is awaiting a court date. This isn’t normal for her (as far as I know) and she said that her friends dared her to do it. I’m obviously upset and disappointed. What can we expect? Is there anything we should do now? I’m personally concerned about her getting accepted into college.

Mike in Southlake, TX

My friends and I were bar hopping on 6th Street after attending ACL (Austin City Limits) this past weekend. They got a bit too rowdy on the street and we were all arrested for public intoxication and spent the night in jail. I was not over the legal limit, but they definitely were. Since I wasn’t drunk, I don’t believe I was treated fairly. What should I do? And what should my friends do? Should they just plead guilty and pay the fine?

Steven in Austin, TX

My son was arrested as a juvenile his freshman year of highschool in Houston, TX for possession of brass knuckles found in his locker. He was released early from the juvenile program for good behavior and completed all required paperwork relevant to the case. That was over 5 years ago and he is now attending a university in another part of Texas.

I’m pretty sure he is eligible for sealing his juvenile records, but I’ve also read something about automatic restricted access to juvenile records once one reaches the age of 17. I’ve also heard about the recent law of automatic restriction of access to juvenile records. Maybe these are the same thing.

In short, my question is: is it necessary for him to do anything additionally to get his records sealed, or has everything already been done for him by the state?

Thanks! - Amanda